Tips on Buying Cars: Auto Financing, luck steve, yr contract

Question
I signed an 6 yr. contract with HSBC in July 2006 for my new 2006 in Houston, Texas.  My payoff date is May 2012.  Since that time HSBC Auto finance sold all their accounts to Santander Auto Finance.  First off, I was NEVER notified until I went on line to make my monthly payment.  Since the takeover just over a year ago, Santander has my loan payoff in June 2014.  In addition, whenever I make a payment I am charged an additional $5.00 for it!  I've tried and tried to get an explanation from Santander and each time I "chat" with someone at Santander they tell me that is the way it is and I have to pay on my car until June 2014.  Seriously?  By the time I pay off my car it will be 8 years old.  They continue to call my work if I'm one day late.  They have been informed in writing and via chat that I cannot receive debt calls at work.  One day late!  Please I need some guidance as I have NEVER signed anything with Santander.  My account was told to them with thousands of other accounts by HSBC Auto finance.  I don't have money for an attorney due to my hours and pay cut at work.  Please help!  

Thank you.  
Janet

Answer
Hi Janet,
Sorry for your problems. First do you have the original paperwork from HSBC that shows the month and date the 6 year loan began?? If you do make copies, then call Santander, request to speak with someone that will review the acct with you and accept a fax to prove your loan is 6 years. If they resist, i recommend you call an attorney to help, hopefully a letter and a phone call from him/her would help at a minimum cost. As long as you have proof you should be able to fix this. They did not have to notify you that the loan was sold, but the terms have to remain the same, it may be a bit of a hassle, but it sounds like a clerical error that can be fixed. Please keep me apprised of the progress and ultimate correction of ypur contract. Good Luck!!

STEVE